Donell Thomas, a former Delaware State men’s basketball standout (1989-93), returned to his alma mater as an assistant coach for the DSU women’s basketball program in July of 2015.

“I am thrilled and excited to welcome Coach Donell “Train” Thomas back home to our DSU family,” said head coach Barbara Burgess. “Coach Thomas is a veteran of the game as well as a teacher of the game at all levels.”

Burgess added that with Donell joining her staff, he will bring along an abundance of knowledge to the program.

Thomas previously spent a combined 12 seasons at nearby Caesar Rodney High School, including the last three as the head men’s basketball coach. He also served as an assistant coach with the Wesley College (Del.) men’s basketball program for two seasons, overseeing the development and growth of post players.

As a Hornet, Thomas helped lead Delaware State to two Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Tournament championship games (1991, 1993), in addition to serving as a team captain twice. His best season on the court occurred during Thomas’ senior year, averaging 10.2 points, 8.1 rebounds (team-best) and 1.2 blocks (team-best) per contest.

Thomas went on to play professionally for the United States Basketball League (USBL) for one season with the Long Island Surf (1998-99), in addition to one season overseas in Europe with Panathinaikos Athens (2000-01). He also had a brief stint with the world renowned Harlem Globetrotters in 2000.

A native of Philadelphia, Pa., Thomas received his bachelor’s degree from Delaware State in Recreation in 1996 with a minor in Sociology.